Loaded Bacon Cheddar Ranch Smash Burgers
These loaded bacon cheddar ranch smash burgers are packed with juicy beef, crispy bacon, gooey cheddar, and tangy ranch, all smashed to perfection for irresistible crispy edges. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or impressing a crowd, this easy recipe delivers bold flavor and classic comfort in every bite.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1 packet (about 2 tablespoons) ranch seasoning mix
- Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste
- 8–12 slices bacon, cooked crisp
- 8–12 slices sharp cheddar cheese or 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1 red onion, thinly sliced
- Iceberg or romaine lettuce, shredded or whole leaves
- 1–2 tomatoes, sliced (optional)
- Pickles (dill slices or chips)
- 4–6 brioche or potato hamburger buns
- 2–3 tablespoons unsalted butter (for toasting buns)
Instructions
- Line a plate with paper towels. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook bacon until crispy (about 8-10 minutes), flipping halfway. Transfer to the plate to drain.
- In a mixing bowl, gently combine ground beef with ranch seasoning mix. Divide into 4-6 balls (about 5-6 oz each). Do not flatten yet.
- Prep toppings: slice red onion, tomato, pickles, and lettuce. Arrange for easy assembly.
- Spread softened butter on the cut sides of buns. Toast buns butter-side down in a skillet or griddle over medium heat until golden brown (1-2 minutes). Set aside.
- Preheat a cast iron or heavy skillet over medium-high heat for at least 3 minutes, until very hot.
- Place beef balls in the hot skillet, leaving space between each. Using a metal spatula, press down firmly until patties are about 1/2 inch thick. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes until edges are browned and crispy.
- Flip patties and immediately top with cheddar cheese (1-2 slices or 1/4 cup per burger). Cook another 1-2 minutes, until cheese is melted and burgers are cooked through (internal temp 160°F).
- Spread ranch dressing on the bottom bun. Layer with lettuce, cheesy smash burger patty, bacon slices, onions, tomatoes, pickles, and more ranch if desired. Top with the other bun.
- Serve hot and enjoy immediately.
Notes
For best results, use 80/20 ground beef for juicy, crispy-edged burgers. Preheat your skillet thoroughly for a great sear. Smash the patties firmly for maximum crust. Gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps can be used for dietary needs. Prep all toppings before cooking for quick assembly. Burgers are best served hot and fresh.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger with bun and toppings
- Calories: 690
- Sugar: 6
- Sodium: 1200
- Fat: 44
- Saturated Fat: 18
- Carbohydrates: 36
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 38
Keywords: smash burgers, bacon cheddar ranch burger, easy dinner, loaded burger, skillet burger, American burger, comfort food, quick dinner, family meal, homemade burger